Director of Special Events

Make-A-Wish Foundation of the TX Gulf Coast and LA, Inc.•Stafford, TX

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Director of Special Events is a strategic, results-driven leader responsible for the planning, execution, and growth of the chapter’s signature fundraising events, including the annual Wish Ball. This role oversees all aspects of event development from logistics and vendor management to revenue generation and donor engagement ensuring exceptional experiences that drive philanthropic support and deepen donor relationships. This position partners closely with the Vice President of Philanthropy, President & CEO, Board leadership, event chairs, and host committees to maximize event revenue, strengthen donor pipelines, and elevate the organization’s visibility and impact. The Director also supervises the Special Events Manager and collaborates across the development team to convert event participants into long-term donors. This role is responsible for generating $1 million+ in annual revenue through sponsorship, donations, and event-based fundraisers.

Requirements

7+ years of experience in nonprofit fundraising and special events management.
Demonstrated success leading high-profile, revenue-generating events (galas, large-scale fundraisers).
Proven ability to manage budgets and achieve ambitious revenue goals.
Experience working with volunteer leadership (event chairs, host committees, boards).
Strong leadership and team management experience.
Exceptional organizational, project management, and problem-solving skills.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills with a donor-centric approach.
Proficiency with CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce) and event fundraising tools.
Confidentiality and personal integrity are essential.
Strategic thinker with strong business acumen and fundraising expertise.
Ability to manage multiple, complex projects in a fast-paced environment.
High attention to detail and commitment to excellence.
Skilled relationship builder with the ability to inspire and influence stakeholders.
Deep commitment to mission-driven work and donor stewardship.
Provide excellent customer service and representation of Make-A-Wish to external supporters.
Commitment to and a passion for the mission of Make-A-Wish Texas Gulf Coast and Louisiana.
Able to effectively leverage qualified leads, as well as their own network, to create unique partnership opportunities.
Comply with National Performance Standards along with chapter guidelines and procedures.
Adhere to all Make-A-Wish® America performance standards and Make-A-Wish® Texas Gulf Coast and Louisiana policies and procedures.

Responsibilities

Lead the strategic planning and execution of the Wish Ball and other signature and stewardship events, overseeing logistics, vendor management, timelines, and overall event delivery.
Own event revenue performance, including sponsorships, ticket sales, auctions, and donor giving, and develop annual event plans aligned with organizational fundraising goals.
Identify and implement strategies to grow event revenue through innovative sponsorship models, donor engagement tactics, and fundraising initiatives.
Partner with Event Chair(s) and recruit, engage, and manage a high-performing Host Committee to drive fundraising results, attendee engagement, and community visibility.
Oversee development of sponsorship packages and support the cultivation and solicitation of corporate partners and individual donors.
Ensure exceptional sponsor and donor experiences by managing deliverables, recognition, and all event-related communications, including invitations, stewardship, and follow-up.
Design and execute meaningful event experiences that deepen donor engagement and satisfaction.
Oversee the planning and execution of additional fundraising, cultivation, and stewardship events throughout the year, ensuring alignment with donor engagement strategies and organizational priorities.
Develop and manage comprehensive event budgets, ensuring financial goals are met or exceeded.
Track revenue and expenses, providing regular financial updates and post-event analysis.
Optimize cost efficiencies while maintaining a high-quality donor experience.
Partner with individual giving, major gifts and corporate teams to maximize event-related revenue and engagement.
Cultivate, steward, and solicit event donors, with a focus on transitioning high-potential supporters into major gift pipelines.
Leverage events as a strategic tool for donor acquisition, retention, and upgrading.
Support post-event donor stewardship plans and follow-up strategies to deepen relationships.
Directly manage the Special Events Manager, providing leadership, coaching, and performance oversight.
Oversee the execution of live and silent auctions, raffles, and other revenue-driving event components through the Manager.
Foster a collaborative, accountable, and high-performing team environment.
Work closely with Development, Corporate Engagement, Major Gifts, and Marketing teams to align event strategies and messaging.
Ensure seamless integration of event efforts into the broader fundraising ecosystem.
Collaborate on promotional strategies, storytelling, sponsorship materials, and donor communications.

Benefits

100% employer paid for healthcare
dental insurance
vision insurance
basic life insurance
short-term disability
long-term disability
Medical coverage for employee’s family members is available through company policy, with a portion of this coverage subsidized by employer.
company 401(k) retirement savings plan, with an employer match up to 6% of compensation.
generous paid time off
14-16 paid holidays in a calendar year, including a week near the end of December.